This deformity is caused by medial deviation of hallux in relation to 1^st metatarsal bone. Flexible hallux varus is a a common foot deformity seen in children which causes the foot to turn inwards. The foot appears “c-shaped.

Most of the hallux varus is acquired following corrective surgery for hallux valgus. Other are due to trauma or arthritis. Congenital one ore either primary which is very rare and secondary due to polydactyl.

What do you Feel?

• Pain
• Stiffens
• Difficulty in walking and push off
• Difficulty in wearing shoe
• Gait abnormality

If the deformity  does not correct with growth of the child in congenital form and in acquired form if it is symptomatic and hampering with day do day activity like walking, wearing shoe, one should visit a specialist foot and ankle surgeon.

In congenital hallux varus your doctor may ask about your child’s birth history and if other family members had the condition. He would examine the foot of your child for its flexibility. Your doctor may advise X-ray imaging of your child’s foot. In acquired form history of any previous surgery, the flexibility of joint and other issues are evaluated. He will ask for weight bearing x-ray of the foot.

The congenital form gets corrected with time as children grow. In established hallux varus role of conservative treatment is limited.

Conservative:

• Physiotherapy- this involves stretching of tightened structures, Gait training
• Shoe modification- customised shoe with wide toe box
• Strapping of toe in early post-operative deformity

Surgical:
Surgical treatment consist of soft tissue release and osteotomy.